Dentist

What you need to know

Overview

Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients’ teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of the teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health.

What is this career like?

Some dentists own their own businesses and work alone or with a small staff. Other dentists have partners in their practice, and some work for more established dentists as associate dentists.

Some of the things dentists might do:

Remove decay from teeth and fill cavities

Repair cracked or fractured teeth and remove teeth

Place sealants or whitening agents on teeth

Administer anesthetics to keep patients from feeling pain during procedures

Prescribe antibiotics or other medications

Examine x rays of teeth, gums, the jaw, and nearby areas in order to diagnose problems

Make models and measurements for dental appliances, such as dentures, to fit patients

Teach patients about diets, flossing, the use of fluoride, and other aspects of dental care

The average pay for dentists in the United States ranges from $70,000 to more than $208,000.

The specific pay depends on factors such as level of experience, education and training, geographic location, and specific industry.

What is the career outlook?

Overall employment of dentists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The demand for dental services will increase as the population ages and as research continues to link oral health to overall health.

What education is required?

All dental schools require applicants to have completed certain science courses, such as biology and chemistry, before entering dental school. Students typically need at least a bachelor’s degree to enter most dental programs, although no specific major is required. However, majoring in a science, such as biology, might increase one’s chances of being accepted. Requirements vary by school.

Applicants to dental schools usually take the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Dental schools use these tests along with other factors, such as grade point average, interviews, and recommendations, to admit students into their programs.